"It is not too hard to be president when we have a Board as we do, who all work together to put on a wonderful, therapeutic riding program. As most of you know, this is an all-volunteer organization with no cost to riders, who are all special-needs children.

We have been successful because of all those who donate their funds, as well as all of our volunteers who donate their time and energy, and have been very faithful to the program.

In 2009 we are losing two Board members, Amy Nevins (and Sara) and Terry Walker, because they are each moving out of the area. We are going to greatly miss them, and are so thankful for their service for many years.

We have two new Board members, Dian McKinney and Dan Taflinger, long-term volunteers, who will fill the seats of those who are leaving.

2008 was a great season; our Monday program had 11 riders, and our Thursday program had 15 riders. We're especially grateful to those who came every week to lead horses, side walk and back ride; they are so important to the program. I can't say enough about our parents, students, Board members, Leadership Kokomo, Phi Delta, United Way Day of Caring, and many others who step in when they see the need. I know I am going to miss recognizing others, and I am sorry. Other people writing articles will pick up on them.

Jeff Fivecoate will give more details, but we have stayed in our budget and made repairs and improvements to the program and property.

We are thankful to all of those who have had a part in seeing a successful therapeutic program serving our special-needs children. All it takes to become a volunteer is to come out some evening and see the smiles and laughter of our riders when they get on a horse. See you at the barn!"

Charlie Gillam

Responsibilities Our Board is a 'Working Board' as opposed to a administrative group. This means we are all active volunteers in the program as well as administrators that plan, organize, develop and carry out the vision of EquiVenture Therapeutic Riding.

Board meetings are held on a mutually agreeable day and time approximately 6 times a year. They are sometimes held at the activity center next to our arena located at 6086 West 250 South, Russiaville Indiana, weather permitting. At other times, member's homes or churches. These meetings are open for all members to attend. The Annual General Meeting, held in January, is open to the general public.